South African Star Tyla Secures Two 2025 MTV VMA Nominations

South African Star Tyla Earns Dual Nominations at the 2025 MTV VMAs, Spotlighting Afrobeats on the Global Stage

Rising global music sensation Tyla continues to break new ground as she secures two prestigious nominations at the upcoming 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). The 23-year-old South African artist has been recognized in two major categories — Best Choreography and Best Afrobeats — for her widely acclaimed single Push 2 Start.

This latest milestone reinforces Tyla’s growing influence on the international music scene and marks another significant achievement in her meteoric career. Her music, a bold and innovative blend of Afrobeats and global pop elements, continues to captivate audiences worldwide, further cementing African music’s position in mainstream entertainment.

Tyla’s musical achievements

Tyla is no stranger to making history. In 2024, she became the first African artist to both receive a nomination and take home a win at the MTV VMAs — a groundbreaking moment that highlighted not just her talent but also the increasing recognition of African artists in global award circuits. Her recent Grammy win has further propelled her to global stardom, placing her among the most influential young artists shaping the future of music.

While Tyla’s nominations are turning heads, the overall frontrunner this year is none other than Lady Gaga, who leads the pack with a staggering 12 nominations. Her critically acclaimed 2023 album Mayhem has earned her nods in top-tier categories such as Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best Album. This marks the third occasion Gaga has topped the VMA nomination chart. With 18 career wins already under her belt, she remains one of the most decorated artists in VMA history.

Close behind is Bruno Mars, who has racked up 11 nominations for his work over the past year, including standout collaborations and solo performances. Kendrick Lamar follows with 10 nominations, continuing his strong presence in both mainstream and socially conscious music.

In an exciting update, the 2025 VMAs will debut two brand-new categories: Best Country Artist and Best Pop Artist, reflecting the evolving landscape of popular music and the growing influence of these genres in the global market.

The star-studded event is scheduled to take place on September 7th at the UBS Arena in New York, and promises to deliver another unforgettable night of performances, awards, and tributes to the year’s most impactful artists.

A Glance at the Top Nominees for the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards:

Artist of the Year

Bad Bunny – Rimas Entertainment
Beyoncé – Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia Records
Kendrick Lamar – pgLang / Interscope Records
Lady Gaga – Interscope Records
Morgan Wallen – Big Loud Records / Mercury Records
Taylor Swift – Republic Records
The Weeknd – XO / Republic Records

Song of the Year

Alex Warren – “Ordinary” – Atlantic Records
Billie Eilish – “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” – Darkroom / Interscope Records
Doechii – “Anxiety” – Top Dawg Entertainment / Capitol Records
Ed Sheeran – “Sapphire” – Gingerbread Man Records / Atlantic Records
Gracie Abrams – “I Love You, I’m Sorry” – Interscope Records
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With A Smile” – Interscope Records
Lorde – “What Was That” – Republic Records
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.” – Atlantic Records
Tate McRae – “Sports Car” – RCA Records
The Weeknd ft. Playboi Carti – “Timeless” – XO / Republic Records

Best Collaboration

Bailey Zimmerman & Luke Combs – “Backup Plan” – Atlantic Records / Warner Music Nashville
Kendrick Lamar & SZA – “luther” – pgLang / Interscope Records
Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars – “Die With A Smile” – Interscope Records
Post Malone ft. Blake Shelton – “Pour Me A Drink” – Mercury Records
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – “APT.” – Atlantic Records
Selena Gomez & benny blanco – “Sunset Blvd” – SMG Music / Friends Keep Secrets / Interscope Records